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Henrico Meals tax now in effect

Posted at 11:20 PM, Jun 01, 2014
and last updated 2014-06-01 23:20:08-04

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) - If you are going out to eat in Henrico County now, expect to pay a little more.

In November, Henrico voters approved the new 4% meals tax for sit-down meals and some to-go orders. Back in November, county leaders estimated nearly 40-percent of the revenue raised will be paid by non-residents, those who come from outside the area. It’s believed close to $18 million will be raised in the first year from the meals tax.

County leaders said the money raised will go toward Henrico County Public Schools.

"Not everybody will appreciate it, but at the same time in the long run it will create a better education for Henrico County Public Schools," said restaurant owner, Paul Tran.

CBS 6 visited Pho 1 Grill in Henrico County earlier this week before the tax went into effect.  Our meal came to $37.22. We came back again on Sunday and ordered the same thing we did earlier in the week. That total came to $38.64, which is $1.42 more.

"I don't think it's a whole lot," said Gayle Slifka, who dines in Henrico County frequently. "It's a minute dent, especially if you enjoy the meal."